This was one of the most fulfilling performances of my life. Ruth is an exquisite musician whose spirit soars through her voice. Such a joy to be in musical conversation in such a sacred space.
The Secret Beyond Stillness
(This blog is from the mystical side of my musical/spiritual practice) I use music daily before meditation to awaken my relationship with the Divine, chanting sacred sanskrit verses with my harmonium. The effect is always uplifting, energizing and centering, but
Inspired Music – a Pathway to Higher Consciousness
I love the clean slate of January: a chance to set intentions and renew my sense of purpose. Fueled with energy to change the “old” by bringing in the “new,” I’m ready to clarify, expand, and uplift. For me, 2019 will
Musical Shifts of Consciousness
Last night I hosted a screening of a beloved movie, after which I experienced what is commonly called a “shift in consciousness”. I felt deep joy and connectedness, and my mind rose above worries for the future. All I wanted
Discoveries from the Heart of Yoga, Music and Meditation
Last weekend I helped design and lead a workshop that combined yoga and a live music experience for the Northwest Yoga Conference. Using music in yoga classes is nothing new, but we decided to offer live music not as background,
Walking the Fine Line
As a public school employee, I have to be careful about how I introduce meditation in the classroom. Thankfully, mindfulness practices have been accepted into public education by focusing on improving awareness and paying attention, bypassing religious dogmas and debates. But
If Music is Your Religion, Here’s How to Worship
Think of one of your most amazing musical experiences—a concert, rehearsal or your private practice—and you’ll soon realize that music brought you into some form of bliss. Wherever it happened, you likely felt an awakening of energy, a presence, expanded
If You Want Peace of Mind in Performance, Practice With a Mind of Peace
People often remark that my playing gives them peace. Is it my sound? My articulation? My phrasing? Peace is what I practice every time I take out my cello and warm up. I focus on producing the fullest sound with the least
Celebrate the Return of Light in Your Music
Happy Winter Solstice! How are you celebrating the return of the light? Years ago as a classroom teacher, I discovered that many cultures celebrate with light throughout the year: Ramadan. Diwali. Chanukah. Kwanzaa. Christmas. Furthermore, in yogic traditions the solstices and
I’m a recovering clock-watcher
My daughter finally turned 10 today. Sitting at the table before the festivities, she showed herself worthy of Olympic clock-watching potential: “Only 1 hour and forty….THREE minutes ’til my party!” Of course she gets her talents from me. I vividly remember a few Pittsburgh Youth